If you’re craving something warm, comforting, and packed with nourishing flavors, this Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender chicken thighs mingling perfectly with vibrant, wholesome vegetables in a fragrant broth that tastes like a hug in a bowl. Every spoonful offers a delightful balance of textures and savory notes that make this stew an absolute favorite for chilly evenings or any time you want a satisfying, home-cooked meal that comes together simply yet leaves a lasting impression.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh, and essential ingredients is what makes this Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew Recipe not only delicious but also straightforward to prepare. Each component plays a crucial role, whether it’s bringing sweetness, earthiness, or that rich, robust flavor that transforms this dish into a family favorite.
- 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Choose thighs for moisture and tenderness that won’t dry out during cooking.
- 4 tablespoons of olive oil: Adds depth and helps sauté the aromatics perfectly.
- 1 large onion, diced: The foundation of flavor, offering sweetness and texture.
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced: For a subtle kick and aromatic charm.
- 4 medium carrots, sliced: Provide natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- 3 medium potatoes, diced: A hearty element that soaks up flavors beautifully.
- 2 stalks of celery, sliced: Adds a lovely crunch and freshness.
- 1 cup of green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces: Gives bright, crisp bites amid the stew.
- 1 cup of frozen peas: A sweet burst that’s easy to toss in right before simmering.
- 6 cups of low-sodium chicken broth: The soul of the stew, providing rich, savory depth without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme: Imparts earthy, slightly minty undertones.
- 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary: Adds aromatic pine-like fragrance and flavor.
- 1 bay leaf: Enhances all the flavors with subtle herbal notes.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to bring everything together.
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish: A bright, fresh finish that adds color and a hint of herbaceousness.
How to Make Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by warming 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and cook until it becomes translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes. This step lays down a sweet, savory base that carries through the whole stew.
Step 2: Add Garlic for Aroma
Next, add the minced garlic and stir for about a minute. Garlic brings an irresistible aroma and flavor that makes your kitchen smell fantastic and enhances the overall complexity of the stew.
Step 3: Brown the Chicken
Turn the heat up to medium-high and add the bite-sized chicken thigh pieces, seasoning them with salt and pepper. Brown the chicken on all sides for about 5 to 7 minutes. This not only locks in the juices but also creates a nice caramelized flavor layer that won’t be lost during simmering.
Step 4: Add the Vegetables
Once the chicken is nicely browned, stir in the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, and celery. Mixing these in now ensures they start softening and soaking up flavors early on, giving you perfectly tender veggies in the end.
Step 5: Pour in Broth and Herbs
Pour the chicken broth into the pot, then add green beans, frozen peas, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and the bay leaf. Bring everything to a rolling boil; this combines all the flavors and starts the cooking process for the vegetables and chicken alike.
Step 6: Simmer Until Tender
Reduce the heat to low, cover your pot, and let the stew gently simmer for 30 to 40 minutes. This slow cooking melds the flavors beautifully and ensures the chicken and veggies are melt-in-your-mouth tender.
Step 7: Season to Taste
Before you serve, taste your stew and add extra salt and pepper if needed. This final seasoning touch makes all the difference and allows you to customize the stew just to your liking.
Step 8: Remove Bay Leaf and Garnish
Don’t forget to remove the bay leaf! Then ladle the stew into bowls and finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. The parsley adds a pop of color and an herbaceous brightness that perfectly balances the richness of the stew.
How to Serve Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs such as parsley are a classic choice for this stew, adding a fresh note that cuts through the savory richness. For an extra touch, a sprinkle of cracked black pepper or even a drizzle of good-quality olive oil can elevate your presentation and flavor even more.
Side Dishes
This stew shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with crusty bread to mop up every last drop, buttery mashed potatoes for extra comfort, or even a simple green salad to introduce a crisp, refreshing texture contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this stew in mini bread bowls or over creamy polenta. You might also top it with a dollop of sour cream or shredded cheese for a rich and creamy finish to warm everyone’s soul at the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of this Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew Recipe keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making the second-day meal just as enticing as the first.
Freezing
If you want to save the stew for longer, freezing is a fantastic option. Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it into freezer-safe containers. It will keep well frozen for up to 3 months without losing its delicious flavor or texture.
Reheating
When ready to enjoy again, thaw the stew in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add a splash of broth or water if it feels too thick, and adjust seasoning before serving to refresh its lively taste.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for this stew?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts work too, but they tend to dry out more quickly, so keep an eye on the simmering time and be gentle when stirring to maintain tenderness.
Is this stew suitable for freezing and meal prep?
Yes, it freezes wonderfully and is ideal for batch cooking. Just be sure to cool it completely before freezing for the best flavor and texture retention.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried in this recipe?
You can! Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs in place of dried to maintain the same flavor intensity. Add fresh herbs near the end of cooking or as a garnish to keep their vibrant taste.
What can I substitute for green beans and peas?
Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like zucchini, corn, or bell peppers. Just add them based on their cooking times to ensure everything finishes perfectly together.
How thick should the stew be? Can I make it thicker?
The stew should be hearty but still have a good amount of broth to enjoy as a soup. If you want a thicker texture, simmer uncovered for the last 10 minutes or mash some of the potatoes and carrots into the broth to naturally thicken it.
Final Thoughts
There is something so deeply satisfying about a bowl of this Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew Recipe. It combines wholesome ingredients, simple techniques, and rich, comforting flavors that warm you up from the inside out. Whether you’re looking for a nourishing weeknight dinner or a make-ahead meal to enjoy later, this stew fits the bill perfectly. I hope you give it a try and find as much joy in eating it as I do in sharing it with friends.
Print
Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Stew
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Salt
Description
This hearty chicken and vegetable stew is a comforting and nutritious one-pot meal, perfect for chilly days. Tender chicken thighs are simmered with a medley of fresh vegetables and fragrant herbs in a flavorful low-sodium chicken broth, creating a satisfying dish that’s both wholesome and delicious.
Ingredients
Meat
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
Vegetables
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 medium carrots, sliced
- 3 medium potatoes, diced
- 2 stalks celery, sliced
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup frozen peas
Liquids & Seasonings
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Sauté Onions: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add Garlic: Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Brown Chicken: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the chicken pieces to the pot. Season with salt and pepper. Brown the chicken on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Vegetables: Once the chicken is browned, add the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, and sliced celery to the pot. Stir to combine.
- Add Broth and Herbs: Pour in the chicken broth and add the green beans, frozen peas, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer Stew: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Allow the stew to simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.
- Serve: Remove the bay leaf before serving. Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
Notes
- For a thicker stew, you can mash some of the potatoes against the side of the pot and stir.
- Chicken thighs provide a richer flavor and remain tender; skinless cuts reduce fat content.
- Feel free to substitute or add other vegetables like parsnips or mushrooms.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or can be frozen for longer storage.
